Fine structure and cytochemistry of the endoplasmic reticulum and its association with the plasma membrane of Leishmania mexicana amazonensis
Pimenta, P.F.; De Souza, W.
Journal of Submicroscopic Cytology 17(3): 413-419
1985
ISSN/ISBN: 0022-4782 PMID: 4020925 Document Number: 258867
Promastigotes of L. m. amazonensis possess an elaborate system of cytoplasmic membranes which is clearly visualized when the cells are fixed in a glutaraldehyde solution containing Ca2+ and post-fixed in an osmium tetroxide solution containing Ca2+ and potassium ferricyanide. When the parasites are incubated in a medium containing glucose-6-phosphate and lead nitrate, a reaction product indicative of glucose-6-phosphatase activity is seen in the membrane system confirming that it corresponds to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). A large concentration of profiles of the ER was observed at the anterior region of the cell, close to the flagellar pocket, appearing as a 'proliferative focus'. Profiles of the ER radiate toward the periphery of the cell, penetrating between the subpellicular microtubules and reaching the plasma membrane.